Bears’ play-off hopes are now in their own hands

Warwickshire Bears got their promotion bid back on track with a 60-30 win over a spirited Essex Outlaws side in Division Three Central.

Almost a month after their previous match - a first defeat of the season at the hands of CWBA - Bears edged a tight first period 10-6 before a change to a two-man pressing game allowed them to a open up a 29-12 lead at half-time.

With a strong bench available to him, Masterson was able to refresh his side, allowing them to extend their advantage to 25 points going into the final quarter.

And, with victory in the bag, Bears fielded some of their newer players to see out a comfortable final quarter, leaving coach Masterson a happy man.

“It was a good performance,” said Masterson. “We have had to wait a long time to put things right since the last game.

“I was impressed how gritty the Outlaws were and their spirit in not letting the score drop their performance.

“[We] had a point to prove and I think we showed what they are made off.

“We now have only one game left to finish top and qualifying for the National play-offs is all in our own hands.”

The Bears travel to London to play Hackney Sparrows in their final regular season fixture on April 25.